Xbox One Controller And Headset Prices Revealed

Microsoft has posted the prices for some the Xbox One's
accessories, including the upcoming console's controller, headset, and charge
kit.

The official Microsoft Store lists the price for a
standalone Xbox One wireless controller at $59.99, just $10 more than what the
company charges for a wireless 360 controller. An Xbox One Chat Headset – which
we know will
not be bundled with the system – will set players back $24.99. Microsoft is
also offering an official charging kit, which contains a charging cable and
battery pack, for $24.99 – or you can buy a controller/charge kit combo for
$74.99.

Our TakeWhile Microsoft's product page states
that the Xbox One controller boasts over 40 innovations, I'm disappointed by
two glaring omissions. First, is the much-complained about missing headset –
given the company's numerous
policy changes
recently, I'm surprised Microsoft hasn't decided to throw one in with console just
to shut people up.

My second point of
contention is that the Xbox One controller uses AA batteries by default. While
environmentally conscious gamers might invest in a charging kit or use their
own rechargeable AA batteries, many more won't think twice about burning
through countless regular batteries during the lifespan of their console.

In January, analyst
firm IDC put the total number of Xbox 360 sales at 76
million. Throw in all of the extra controllers gamers buy for playing with
friends and family, and you're looking at hundreds of millions of used batteries
every year just for the 360 (the Wii, which has sold roughly 100 million
consoles and countless more Wii remotes, is an even greater offender).

That kind of avoidable
waste is inexcusable for a next-gen console, when virtually every other modern
electronic device has a built-in, rechargeable battery. I was hoping all three
next-gen consoles would adopt a more eco-friendly approach for their controllers
(preferably rechargeable batteries that can also be easily replaced should they
ever wear out), but it looks like Microsoft is still opting for the cheapest
and most wasteful method for powering our future play sessions.